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An Overview of New Process Fibre

For generations, New Process Fibre’s family-owned business has strived to provide ever-improving products and maximum quality while maintaining cost-effectiveness. As the business continues to grow and innovate, we are improving on processes and providing critical non-metallic stamping solutions to a variety of industries.

As New Process Fibre enters its third generation, our family’s desire to improve operations has only become stronger. As a one-stop shop for all of your plastic washer needs, our experts can provide Nylon, Teflon™PTFE, Polypropylene, Polyethylene, and many other types of plastic washers, all while remaining under one roof. You can learn more about New Process Fibre by checking out our new video.

An Overview of New Process Fibre

Your Reliable Non-Metallic Manufacturer

New Process Fibre is an experienced custom manufacturer for a variety of top-quality non-metallic components. Since 1927, we’ve been at the forefront of non-metallic solutions. Ever since, we’ve been dedicated to delivering innovations designed to enhance quality while maintaining cost-effectiveness. We perform all of our operations under one roof in our Greenwood, Delaware campus, allowing us to keep a close eye on production quality throughout the entire manufacturing process. 

By streamlining the supply chain, you can be assured that you’re doing business with a reliable partner. With a wide range of production equipment, raw material storage, an extensive material selection, and the ability to extrude our own plastics, we can meet any of your needs with a fast turnaround. We are proud to manufacture all of our products in America, and we’d love to work with you on your next project. 

New Process Fibre: 1927 To the Present

Carl Porter started New Process Fibre in 1927 with a strong desire to enhance manufacturing processes. In fact, the company’s name is derived from the innovative process that Porter created for a new, more affordable way of transforming cotton paper into vulcanized fibre. With guidance from Porter’s son-in-law, Henry Peters, New Process Fibre moved towards enhancing all aspects of the non-metallic stamping process, which included vulcanized fiber washers.

Today, New Process Fibre continues to improve products, ensure optimal quality, and maintain cost-effectiveness. With a dedication to keeping all manufacturing operations in-house, we ensure that every aspect of the non-metallic stamping process meets the highest standards for quality. Our on-site capabilities include:

  • Extruding our own thermoplastics
  • In-house tool room with EDM capabilities, enabling us to make our own tooling
  • A wide range of production equipment, allowing us to complete projects ranging from small prototype runs to multi-million piece production

As experts in non-metallic manufacturing, we are committed to delivering the highest level of quality to our customers. With a wide material selection and state-of-the-art tooling, we can create custom plastic washers in various colors, thicknesses, and diameters to meet a range of application requirements. 

Our “Under One Roof” Philosophy

At New Process Fibre, we perform all of our operations in-house, which really sets us apart from the competitors. Specifically, we offer:

  • Slitting and shearing. We can form sheets, strips, coils, and rolls from a wide range of non-metallic materials, including NEMA grade materials.
  • Extrusion and slitting. We can extrude various non-metallic materials into coils, rolls, strips, and sheets in a range of dimensions.
  • Tool and die making. Our superior tooling facilities allow us to create both basic and intricate tooling and dies using the latest technology to reduce overall cycle time.
  • Non-metallic stamping services. With over 75 punch presses, more than 7,500 washer dies, and a range of colors and materials, New Process Fibre can create non-metallic parts to meet your specific needs.

For more information about our capabilities, or to work with us on your next non-metallic manufacturing project, contact New Process Fibre today. 

A Guide to Plastic Stamping

Plastic stamping is a manufacturing process that enables the creation of very thin parts. Typically, this process utilizes a set of dies and a punch press. The press is available in both conventional and high speed options, with varying tonnages depending on the equipment. This machinery is able to punch a shape from a non-metallic substance such as extruded plastic. Manufacturers can utilize plastic stamping to create an array of flat shapes, including gaskets and washers.

What Dies Are Used in Plastic Stamping?

CNC punching machine

Dies are highly versatile, with applications across a wide range of industries. The plastic stamping process will most commonly utilize a compound die, which consists of two separate dies. One cuts the outside diameter of the workpiece, while the other punches the interior. After the plastic stamping is complete, high pressurized air will blow away any excess material. The benefit of compound dies is that they enable all stamping to be completed in a single stroke, rather than two separate strokes.

New Process Fibre differs from many other stamping companies, as we specialize in stamping high performance non-metallic materials. We offer an array of stamping solutions, from single stroke compound dies to high-speed progressive dies. This enables us to meet the needs of every customer looking to manufacture high quality non-metallic products.

What Materials Are Considered for Plastic Stamping?

There are many advantages to choosing non-metallic materials over metal ones. Each non-metallic material boasts its own unique properties, enabling them to meet the needs of an array of applications. The materials commonly used for plastic stamping include:

  • Vulcanized fibre
  • Laminates
  • Thermoplastics

Vulcanized Fibre

This material is typically made from a combination of paper, rag, and wood pulp. It offers an excellent strength to weight ratio, and is resistant to impacts and abrasion. It also offers high flammability ratings. As such, vulcanized fibre is a popular choice in the automotive and electrical industries.

Laminates

Commonly found in industries such as petroleum, aerospace, and automotive, laminates are composed of resin. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) grades laminates for mechanical and chemical performance properties.

Thermoplastics

nylon-6

Thermoplastics are a highly versatile option, as they may be composed of a variety of different materials. These include:

  • Polypropylene copolymer and homopolymer
  • Polyethylene HDPE & LDPE
  • Teflon
  • Acetal copolymer & Delrin homopolymer
  • Nylon 6, 66 & MDS
  • G-10 FR4 Nema Grade

Thanks to their versatility, thermoplastics are a popular choice for many consumer products.

New Process Fibre’s Custom Plastic Stamping Capabilities

For stamped parts with unconventional shapes or dimensions, the ability to design custom tooling and dies is invaluable. At New Process Fibre, our in-house tool room offers CAD/CAM and wire EDM capabilities, enabling our design engineers to create custom tooling suited to the unique specifications of every project. We are also able to stamp a wide array of non-metallic specialty materials, including:

  • Acetal & Delrin
  • Teflon
  • Nylon 6,66 & MDS
  • Vulcanized fibre
  • High and low density polyethylene
  • G-10 FR4 Nema Grade

Our range of material options and custom tooling enables us to work on projects in industries ranging from consumer goods and plumbing to aerospace, military, and automotive.

Due to the fact that we maintain ownership of the tool throughout the lifetime of the stamped part, our customers do not need to worry about maintaining or storing the tool for future use. We also provide inventory and storage for any excess production volumes, thus enabling us to provide lower overall costs.

Custom Plastic Stamping Solutions From New Process Fibre

Since 1927, New Process Fibre has been dedicated to innovation and growth. Our operation began from a desire to design a more efficient and cost-effective process for creating vulcanized fibre from cotton paper. We have continued this trend of innovation for nearly a century, performing all our manufacturing in-house to provide our customers with the highest quality non-metallic stamped parts. Our expansive array of production equipment in combination with our customization capabilities enables us to meet the needs of any project, large or small. To learn more about our plastic stamping solutions, contact us today.

Guide-to-Plastic-Stamping infographic

How to Choose an Optimal Non-Metallic Stamping Provider?

Non-metallic stamping is the process of pressing a die through non-metallic material, such as thermoset, thermoplastics, or vulcanized fibre. Many industries are choosing this stamping process due to its ability to shape materials within tight tolerances and its cost-effectiveness. Non-metallic stamping produces parts such as plastic gaskets, fasteners, washers and much more.

non metallic stamping

The process of non-metallic stamping involves a high level of precision and attention to detail, which makes it imperative to use optimal machinery and have a team of highly experienced workers. To receive the best outcome, it’s essential to choose the right stamping provider for your needs.

One-Stop-Shop Manufacturing

Working with a manufacturer who can complete everything in-house comes with many benefits for the customer. A one-stop-shop that can deliver all required parts is much more convenient than working with multiple suppliers. One-stop-shop manufacturers optimize the design, production, and delivery processes of any manufacturing project. Some other key advantages of working with a one-stop-shop include:

  • Quicker turnaround times: When you work with a single manufacturer, you gain the benefits of having a short supply chain, which includes reduced lead time. With everything being completed under one roof, the production process can move quickly through each stage, and there are no scheduling conflicts or long wait times to receive product shipments from multiple sources.
  • Better communication: Custom manufacturing jobs can require special attention. Even a small issue can delay the entire project, so to get the best results, it’s important for everyone involved to have excellent communication. Partnering with a one-stop-shop means that everyone involved in your project can communicate directly with each other and resolve issues quickly.
  • Lower costs: Having an in-house manufacturing process means that companies likely enjoy a lower price. One-stop-shops can offer cost-savings opportunities in many aspects of the manufacturing process, from packing, quality control, shipping, lead times, and more.

Various Portfolios of Non-Metallic Stamping Materials

Many significant developments have been made in metal stamping technology. These advancements have provided non-metallic alternatives to traditional metal stamping materials.  Some of the most common non-metallic stamping materials that are used include:

  • Vulcanized Fibre: This strong, lightweight material consists primarily of paper, wood pulp, and rag. In addition to being highly resistant to chemicals, solvents, and abrasion, it is also highly flexible, can withstand significant impacts, and has a high flammability rating. Vulcanized fibre performs well in high-stress environments and is available in grades such as commercial, electrical, bone fibre, trunk fibre, and wood laminating.
  • Thermoplastics: Thermoplastics are non-metallic polymers that structurally change to become more gel-like when exposed to high temperatures or pressure. This allows them to be shaped into the desired part, and to be reshaped if desired. Thermoplastics can be manufactured quickly and consistently, with almost the same precision as metal components.
  • Some of these at NPF include:
    • Washers
    • Discs
    • Spacers
  • Thermosets: Thermosets are a type of plastic that maintain their shape after the curing process and when exposed to high pressures and temperatures. This characteristic makes them ideal for high-heat applications such as printing systems, electrical component insulation, and general equipment insulation.
    • Epoxy parts
    • Custom Gaskets

Expert Quality Control and Production Management

Production management standards and quality control are two essential factors to take note of when choosing a non-metallic stamping provider. Having excellent quality control is vital to ensuring the customer receives products that are free from defects and will meet their needs. Additionally, having quality control practices in place makes a manufacturer less likely to deliver poorly made products or products that could be recalled. Many recalls could have been prevented with more effective quality control procedures.

It’s also imperative to consider the history of the manufacturer you are considering working with. Manufacturers with excellent production management track records are more likely to complete your project according to your specifications and on time.

When choosing the best non-metallic stamping provider, remember to consider factors such as experience and production capabilities. A manufacturer who can complete your project in-house can reduce delays and ensure easy communication so that your components arrive on time and on budget. Look for a manufacturer that can demonstrate clear quality control procedures as this is an important way to ensure you will get a final product that is free from any defects. If you’d like to learn more about the non-metallic stamping process, check out our eBook.

New Process Fibre is ISO certified and has been committed to delivering cost-effective in-house manufacturing services for over 90 years. To find out more about our non-metallic stamping services, please contact us, and to get started on your custom project, submit your request for a quote.

Why Are Automakers Shifting to Plastic Parts?

Across industries, manufacturers are seeking new ways to optimize product performance while minimizing costs and maximizing production efficiency. In the automotive market, specifically, many companies are now using engineered plastic parts rather than traditional sheet metal.

robots welding in an automobile factoryShifting from metal to plastic stamping material is not a new concept in the automotive industry, having been employed since the 1950s; yet in recent decades, automakers have been learning more about the benefits of advanced plastics and discovering new, innovative ways to implement them.

Rising Popularity of Plastic Components

From thermoformed exterior cladding to injection molded panel components, plastics are becoming increasingly popular — and with good reason. Here are some benefits to making the switch:

  • Lower part cost — Plastic parts are not only more cost-effective to produce than metal, but their lighter weight also makes them less expensive to ship. Secondary processes such as texturing and coloring can also be eliminated and replaced by a single injection molded part. Overall, companies switching to plastics can expect to save 25-50% on part production costs.
  • Increased product life — Plastic parts present a much lower risk of corrosion. Unlike metal, plastic does not rust, and most kinds have increased chemical resistance or made from high heat-resistant plastic, making them less susceptible to environmental stresses.
  • Lower vehicle weight — While reduced part weight saves money on production and transportation costs, it also decreases emissions and improves fuel economy, allowing automakers to more easily meet sustainability standards.
  • Increased strength — In addition to enhanced resistance, many plastic pieces have a higher tensile strength than their metal counterparts. By selecting engineer-grade materials and molding them into an optimized structural design, plastic parts can actually be made stronger than metal.
  • Production efficiency — By using versatile methods such as plastic thermoforming and injection molding, many secondary manufacturing processes can be eliminated altogether, saving manufacturers both time and money. Additionally, these processes are more sustainable, as excess plastic can be easily
    reground for reuse.

Switch from Metal to Plastic with New Process Fibre

Background from rubber, plastic, metal seals for sanitary usesNew Process Fibre is a leader in versatile, nonmetal stamped components, including nylon washers ideal for use in automotive applications. As a family-owned company since 1927, we’re committed to providing our customers the best services in the industry. We offer extruding, stamping, and regrinding capabilities, and can run small prototype runs and large multimillion-piece orders alike. All of our work is done in-house.

If you’re ready to make the switch from metal to plastic in your next project, contact us today to learn more.

Using PTFE & Nylon 6 in Plumbing Applications

When choosing the right materials for plumbing applications, water resistance and durability are paramount. While metals have traditionally been used for plumbing components, there are non-metallic alternatives capable of the same level of performance as metals, but are often less expensive. Nylon 6 and PTFE are just two examples.

Nylon 6

Nylon 6 is often used for bearings or as wear material. The material is characterized by good wear resistance, high tensile strength, and by its elasticity. The high strength and durability make it an ideal material for replacing metals.

Unlike most metals, Nylon 6 can withstand long term exposure to alkalis, dilute acids, and oxidizing agents.

On the other hand, its elasticity makes it ideal of replacing various plastics, rubbers, and wood. Nylon 6 also has high impact, heat distortion, abrasion, and vibration resistance.

Page 15 of our Non-Metallic Material Selection & Properties Guide has more details on the mechanical properties of Nylon 6.

Bathroom faucet

Plumbing Applications

Nylon 6 is a lightweight alternative to metals in plumbing applications. As moisture absorption occurs, the impact strength and energy absorption characteristics of Nylon 6 improve; however, the tensile strength and the stiffness of the material decrease, and some elongation occurs. If these side effects are properly accounted for, Nylon 6 can be used safely for plumbing applications. Furthermore, Nylon 6 can be combined with glass fibers, beads, or carbon fibers to improve its mechanical and thermal

performance. Another thing to keep in mind is that Nylon 6 is softer than one of its counterparts, Nylon 6/6, so Nylon 6 seals better for a male-to-female connection.

Some common uses of Nylon 6 would be in sprinkler heads, showerheads and faucets.

Our Nylon Washers might be ideal for your project. Visit our product information page to learn more.

PTFE

PTFE is a fluorocarbon-based polymer with very high chemical resistance, a large operating temperature range, and high resistance to weathering. Any type of filler that is added to PTFE greatly enhances its mechanical properties. The material is a good thermal and electrical insulator, with a low coefficient of friction; because of these properties, it is often used in brake systems, plumbing applications, HVAC systems, electronics, and many more.

Page 26 of our Non-Metallic Material Selection & Properties Guide has more details on the mechanical properties of PTFE.

Plumbing Applications

PTFE is ideal for plumbing applications because it is completely impermeable to water or water-containing substances and oil or oil-containing substances. In fact, thread seal tape (also known as plumber’s tape), which is used to seal pipe threads, is made from PTFE. Also, due to PTFE’s ability to withstand high temperatures, utilizing PTFE washers for hot water applications would be ideal then you do not have to worry about a washer deforming or melting and causing leaks. Some common applications where PTFE can be used would be sprinkler heads and faucets.

Our Round Flat PTFE Washers are ideal for providing secure seals in plumbing applications. For more information about our nylon washers, please visit this page.

Want to Learn More?

We would love to hear from you. Contact us today to learn more about our non-metallic solutions for plumbing applications.

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PTFE: A Versatile Material

PTFE is used in many industrial and commercial applications, including cabling, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and semiconductor manufacturing. PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) resin is a paraffin polymer with some or all of the hydrogen atoms replaced with fluorine atoms.

It is classified as a thermoplastic and has a low coefficient of friction, excellent insulating properties, and is chemically inert (to most substances) because of the strength of the carbon-fluorine bonds. PTFE has the third lowest coefficient of friction of all known solid materials – even a gecko cannot stick to it.

ptfe washers

Versatility 

PTFE is well known for its versatility; it can withstand very high temperatures and has excellent anti-stick properties (which is why it is so often used to coat pots and pans). It was discovered in 1938 by Dr. Roy J. Plunkett and later commercialized in 1946 by DuPont.

Since then, it has been applied to the chemical industry for vessel linings, seals, spacers, gaskets, and washers; the electrical industry for insulators, tubing, and capacitors; and is FDA-approved for the pharmaceutical, food & beverage, and cosmetic industries. And here, at New Process Fibre, we use PTFE to create many parts, especially PTFE Washers.

Range of Applications

The sheer range of suitable applications for PTFE demonstrates the versatility of the material. PTFE fluoroplastic resins continue to be used in a number of applications, including consumer electronics, tubing for flue gas heat exchangers, food processing equipment, industrial coatings, pharmaceutical processing equipment, and are added to inks, molded gears, seals, and lubricants for added resistance to wear and temperature.

PTFE is a solid at room temperature with a density of 2200 kg/m3. Its melting point is 600 K and it maintains its high strength, toughness, and self-lubrication down to a temperature of 5 K.

As previously mentioned, PTFE is unreactive with most chemicals; only alkali metals or high-temperature aluminum, magnesium, and fluorinating agents will affect PTFE.

New Process and PTFE

New Process Fibre uses PTFE to many parts such as, PTFE Washers, PTFE Gaskets, and more. Our PTFE products have excellent chemical resistance and prevent the intrusion of water or oils into your assembly. We can also create custom designs for any of these parts based on your design specifications. Contact us to request a quote for your PTFE part today.


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Nylon: The Multi-Faceted Non-Metallic Material

When most people think of Nylon, chances are that they think of the type of fabric that you might find in a t-shirt or a pair of gym shorts.

The truth is, however, that nylon is a strong and highly versatile material. It is used in the commercial, industrial, and specialty fields, including the medical industry, plumbing, fire safety sprinkler systems, and many others.

We at New Process Fibre have embraced the material. We use four different types of nylon, mixed and extruded in-house to ensure the highest quality, to produce a robust line of versatile products. New Process Fibre particularly specializes in Nylon washers.

Types of Nylonnylon washers

We use custom dies—tooled in house—to stamp our products out of four primary types of Nylon. They all have unique properties and benefits.

Nylon 6 is the type found in thread and fabric, but it is also an excellent replacement for metals such as brass, steel, and aluminum. This makes it an excellent application for gears, spacers, washers, and plumbing applications. Nylon 6 has a typical tensile strength of 12,000 psi, flexural strength of 16,000 psi, and is highly resistant to heat, abrasion, water, wear, and vibration.

MDS (Molybdenum Disulfide) filled Nylon is a type of Nylon 6. Design for food grade applications, it is 3A-Dairy, FDA, and USDA compliant. Of all the grades of nylon 6, MDS filled Nylon is the hardest and strongest, which also makes it well suited to applications in wheels, gears, and bearings.

Nylon 6/6 is high viscosity Nylon. Its mechanical strength and high temperature performance are exceptional. It also has electrical and flammability properties that make it uniquely suitable for chemical and electrical applications.

Nylatron®, trademarked by Quadrant, is a blend of Nylon 6/6 and Molybdenum Disulfide. This addition increases the material’s mechanical and thermal properties. Self-lubricating and with a very low surface friction, Nylatron® is perfect for uses that preclude the application of lubricant for operational, safety, or practical reasons.

Why Choose New Process Fibre?

We at New Process Fibre are the most trusted supplier for the largest users of nylon washers for across the globe. In business for almost 90 years, we have built extensive expertise.

Nylon 6, Nylon 6/6, MDS filled Nylon, and Nylatron® are sheet extruded in-house. With full control over raw materials, we are able to provide consistently high quality materials. We maintain a library of more than 8,000 washer dies and can custom tool new dies according to your designs.

With 75 active presses, capable of reaching 400 strokes per minute, stamping Nylon washers with New Process Fibre is cost effective for small batches and high volume orders alike. We can even customize the color of your washers.

For more information on New Process Fibre Nylon washers — including detailed specifications, customization options, quotes, and more — contact us today.

Material-Guide-download

Why Choose Vulcanized Fibre?

Vulcanized fibre is a natural blend of fibrous materials that are heat-treated to create a hard rubber. It is one of the first plastics ever developed and continues to be highly useful for sealing hardware such as plastic washers and gaskets. Fibres that may be incorporated into vulcanized rubber include wood pulp, paper, and fabric materials such as cotton, all of which add strength and toughness to plastic, while still permitting flexibility. In this article, we will explain the many benefits and why you should choose Vulcanized Fibre for your next project.

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How Is Vulcanized Fibre Produced?

Vulcanized fibre gets its unique qualities from a chemical reaction between natural fibres and chemical additives such as zinc chloride. When exposed to these parchmentising chemicals, the fibres dissolve slightly, creating a slurry. The slurry is then compressed through a roll or press mechanism at high temperatures to create a bond between materials without adding chemical agents. The thickness of the resultant sheet can be modified to meet manufacturer specifications, and the sheets can be laminated to further increase the material’s thickness. vulcanized fibre washers

Vulcanized fibre is versatile and can be custom-shaped using a wide range of fabrication methods, including forming, sawing, cutting, shearing, punching, turning, and milling. Although it is extremely resistant to wear and impact, vulcanized fibre does not perform well in temperatures over 425°F, as the material will burn and break down.

 Applications

Vulcanized fibre can be formulated in a variety of grades to meet the needs of a broad range of applications. Common grades and uses include:

  • Commercial-Grade Fibre:Commercial-grade vulcanized fibre is tough and resilient. It is typically available in red, white, black, or gray, and is often used to create gaskets, gears, and washers.
  • Electrical-Grade Fibre:Electrical-grade vulcanized fibre, also called fish paper, consists of dielectric cotton fibres that can be used as electrical insulators. It is found in a variety of electrical motors for automotive equipment, industrial equipment, and even hand tools and home appliances.
  • Trunk Fibre:Trunk fibre refers to a grade of vulcanized fibre that is exceptionally hard and abrasion-resistant. Protective skid panels, instrument cases, and steamer trunks are a few examples of products that are made with trunk fibre.
  • Bone Fibre:Bone fibre is valued for its extreme density and is the hardest vulcanized fibre available. In addition to its mechanical strength, bone fibre is resistant to oils, gasoline, and solvent chemicals. These properties make it particularly useful for tubing, noiseless gears, cut-out fuses, cutting blocks, and thrust washers.
  • Wood Laminating Fibre:Wood laminating fibre is tough with excellent tensile strength and torsion. It is often used to stabilize and support wood lamination and thin veneers.
  • Fibre Discs:Vulcanized fibre is an excellent backing material for abrasive sanding, grinding, and polishing discs.

Key Benefits of Vulcanized Fibre

Vulcanized fibre offers a broad array of benefits over other materials, including:

  • Eco-Friendly:Vulcanized fibre is almost entirely composed of cellulose and doesn’t include artificial binding agents. Compared to other plastics, the manufacturing process is more environmentally friendly and exposes consumers to fewer chemicals.
  • Highly Versatile:Vulcanized fibre can be formulated for a variety of applications, from automobile components to instrument cases, abrasive discs, and electrical insulation.
  • Mechanical Benefits: Vulcanized fibre exhibits a high strength-to-weight ratio and is exceptionally machinable. It typically will not break, tear, or splinter during processing.
  • Chemical Resistance:Vulcanized fibre can withstand exposure to a variety of chemical solvents, oils, and grease without deteriorating.
  • Cost-Effective:Vulcanized fibre is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and can be customized at minimal cost to enhance desired characteristics.

Vulcanized Fibre Parts and Components From New Process Fibre

At New Process Fibre, we have the in-depth knowledge and experience necessary to provide the perfect fibre components for your needs. For more than 93 years, we have provided stamped vulcanized fibre washers and other components that are critical across industries and sectors.

Whether you need durable washers for industrial applications, a protective instrument case, or durable fish paper, we can create the component you need with the utmost speed and efficiency. To learn more about vulcanized fibre and its many benefits and applications, contact our experts today.

Common Material Options for Non-Metal Stamping

Engineers today know full well of the growing need for specialized and custom materials for stamping. As applications have become more specialized, so too have the materials and configurations available for non-metal stamped products.

With the great array of advancements being made across industries, new applications and processes are increasing the demand for alternatives to traditional metal stamped products. Along with this demand comes the need for new materials in fabrication procedures.

Here are some common options for materials to use in the manufacture of non-metal stamped products.

Vulcanized Fibre

Vulcanized fibre has a number of characteristics making it useful for various applications. It is useful in numerous industries due to its being composed of primarily natural cellulose.

Vulcanized fibre imaterial-guide-covers also beneficial as a primary or secondary material. It has good strength, high durability, and flexibility. It is easily formable and machinable without splintering or cracking, while also being lightweight and having high tensile strength.

Adding to its versatility is the fact that it is high resistance to solvents and chemicals like oil and grease. The five distinct available grades are commercial, electrical, trunk fibre, bone fibre, and wood laminating, each of which are used for a range of applications across industries.

Thermoplastics

The term “thermoplastics” is used to refer to any non-metallic polymer, or a plastic that will structurally change when subjected to pressure and high temperature. Thermoplastics become less solid and more gel-like at higher temperatures.

These characteristics make it more malleable and ideal for processes like injection molding, a cost-effective and fast process for high-value thermoplastic components. Along with light machining processes, thermoplastic components can be manufactured to be almost as precise as metal components, but faster and with better consistency.

Thermoset Plastics

Thermoset plastics, unlike thermoplastics, have a set strength profile that does not change with temperatures. They are primarily used in high heat applications, such as electrical equipment, insulation, appliances, and printing systems. They are handled similarly to metals and metal alloys during the manufacturing process.

Learn more in New Process Fibre’s Material Selection Guide

New Process Fibre has over 85 years of experience working with alternative methods for metal stamping. That is why we are proud to present our Non-Metallic Material Selection & Properties Guide. Inside, you will find comparison tables, computability charts, and much more detail about the materials presented here. Download your free copy today, and let us know now we can help you with your non-metal stamping needs.

Material-Guide-download



Fabricating Non-Metallic Components from Thermoplastics and Thermosets and their Applications

At New Process Fibre we have experience stamping a variety of non-metallic parts for an array of industries. We’ve touched on some of the applications for our components in our blog such as our custom gaskets for the oil industry or our self-retaining washers, however there are even more end applications out there for our products, including aerospace/military, fastener, furniture, power hand tools, consumer appliances, farm and garden equipment, plumbing, electronics, marine and automotive.

To fabricate components for these industries we work with special materials such as Acetal, Delrin®, Mylar®, Kapton®, Lexan®, PTFE, (PTFE based) Epoxy Glass, Canvas Phenolic, Nylon MDS, HDPE/LDPE, Polypropylene and others. Each of these materials can offer certain benefits depending on the end use, for example Nylon MDS is well-suited in bearing applications as it has a high wear resistance and our Vulcanized Fibre can be used for end lamination in motor applications. We can work with our customers to make sure that the proper material is selected for the end use and our in-house capabilities means we can stamp complex parts on a tight deadline.

To learn more about our products, visit our website and if you need more information you can email us our part drawings and we can provide you with a quote. And for more news about New Process Fibre and the industries we serve, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

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